Hello all,
The reason I added "part 2" was because as I searched the threads in the Other Gear category the most helpful thread to me was of the same name but has not been updated since 2007. I just wondered if there have been any products that have or continue to impress you with their performance. Im not looking to spend a large amount of money but quality is a concern.
Although Im not neccessarily ready to buy right now I figured that with the onset of the colder months, if Im kicking around a new jacket someone else is probably looking hard and both of us could use a little input.
Thanks

I used a Columbia wading jacket for years. It did the job, but I felt that the material was to stiff, and the fly box pockets closed with a velcro flap. At the end of a rainy fishing day, I had water in my fly box pockets.

I am using a Simms Rivershed jacket. It is lighter. All the pockets are watertight. I have used it in sub-freezing temperatures, and I was comfortable. I was well layered for the conditions.

Quality is top-notch in all areas....even has underarm pit zips...which I strongly feel are a mandatory & essential feature to a wading jacket in any southeastern state.
(it is a shame Cloudveil is stepping away from the fly-fishing business for the time being)

Patagonia makes great wading jackets...as do William Joseph & Orvis.
Good luck

You should consider whether you want a lightweight jacket or a cool weather only jacket. Personally, I went with a lightweight jacket because I layer with fleece or wool sweaters in the fall/winter therefore I can get year round use.

The Simms Rivershed is an excellent jacket and had all the features I wanted but unfortunately did not fit me in the fore arms-they were too tight to suit me. The Patagonia Deep Wading Jacket is lightweight and can be had for $150 and would likely be a solid choice and a good price point. Orvis has a Sonic Seam jacket that is also worth a look at $150 I have a set of the waders, the material and comfort of these things are outstanding.

I have heard great things about the Cloudveil 8x but Cloudveil has gotten out of the fly fishing game. That being said, there are deals to be had if you look around.

Quality is top-notch in all areas....even has underarm pit zips...which I strongly feel are a mandatory & essential feature to a wading jacket in any southeastern state.
(it is a shame Cloudveil is stepping away from the fly-fishing business for the time being)

Patagonia makes great wading jackets...as do William Joseph & Orvis.
Good luck

The Cloudveil 8X is avaiable at $169 IF you are a size XXL. ordered one yesterday.